PHILADELPHIA, PA — A team of 20 volunteers from the Department of Aviation dedicated their time and effort to revitalizing the garden at the Boys and Girls Club of Chester (BGCC) this April, marking their commitment to Earth Month and community service. The initiative, celebrated under slightly overcast skies on the morning of April 17, was part of a broader series of activities emphasizing environmental stewardship and the spirit of volunteerism among airport staff.
The BGCC, known for its vital role in fostering the development of young people, relies on its garden to produce fresh fruits and vegetables. These not only support the club’s cooking classes but are also shared with the surrounding community. According to Donna Northern, Director of Operations at BGCC, the efforts from the day’s cleanup are set to make a tangible difference in the club’s ability to continue its mission.
Jessica Noon, Airport Sustainability Manager, highlighted the importance of providing staff with opportunities to engage in meaningful environmental work and deepen their understanding of nature. The cleanup event, spearheaded by the Sustainability Team, allowed participants to directly contribute to the nurturing environment that the Boys and Girls Club strives to maintain for education, good character, citizenship, and a healthy lifestyle.
Under the guidance of PA Master Gardeners Lisa Craft and Jane Nyiri, who volunteer weekly at the BGCC, the aviation department volunteers undertook a range of gardening tasks. Their work included weeding, cleaning, pruning, and mulching, all aimed at enhancing the garden’s overall productivity and aesthetic. The participation across various airport departments fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the volunteers.
Public Relations Specialist Trainee, Fulani Bah, shared her enthusiasm for the day’s activities, noting the fulfillment she found in contributing to the BGCC and the joy of working alongside colleagues from different sectors of the Department of Aviation. This sentiment captures the essence of the event’s success in fostering community engagement and cross-departmental collaboration.
The project culminated in a more attractive, safe, and functional garden space, benefiting not only the Boys and Girls Club members but also the wider Chester community. Organizers Keesha Lane, Director of Community Relations and Outreach, and Zoraida Antonetty, Airport Community Relations and Outreach Coordinator, expressed their gratitude towards the BGCC staff and the master gardeners for their partnership in this endeavor.
This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of community and environmental engagement, demonstrating the positive impact that collective action can have on local institutions and the broader ecosystem. Through initiatives like the garden cleanup project, volunteers from the Department of Aviation have illustrated how dedication to service and sustainability can contribute to a brighter, greener future.
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